Politics, Culture, and Faith

Watchdog Alert: Latest From The Middle East

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Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on events in the Middle East. That is not to say that we are watching for any fulfillment of biblical prophecy there, we keep our eyes and ears open to news that affects people of faith from every region around the world.

The Holy Land is of particular interest for three reasons:

  • It is a geographical crossroads, referred to by some the “Center of the Earth”.
  • It is also the historical birthplace of the two largest religions of the world; Christianity and Islam, as well as the ‘Father’ of both those religions – Judaism.
  • It is of major military and strategic importance because of oil production and logistics.

Are the biblical prophecies focusing on geographical locations in the Middle East, especially in and around current-day Israel, relevant to the Church in our times today?

Or will those prophecies only come to pass and be revealed in some future time after the destiny of the Church has been realized? This is a subject Bible Rebel will be exploring in some depth going forward. Stay tuned.

For now, here’s the latest from the Middle East.

Provocation at Al‑Aqsa & Deepening Gaza Crisis

Date: August 3, 2025
Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir visited and prayed at the al‑Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, flouting long‑standing religious protocols. His actions were condemned by Palestinian authorities, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia as a serious provocation. Meanwhile, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis is intensifying: 119 Palestinians were reported killed in the past 24 hours, raising the overall death toll in the Israel‑Gaza war to over 60,800—including 175 hunger-related deaths (93 were children). Israeli forces reportedly killed 27 Palestinians at food‑aid sites, and a Palestine Red Crescent staff member was among those killed.
From The Guardian

U.S. Envoy Inspects Aid Sites Amid Accusations of ‘Bloodbaths’

Date: August 1–2, 2025
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff—on his first visit to Gaza since the war began—inspected aid operations run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) in Rafah. The United Nations had rejected collaborating with GHF, warning that distribution sites had become unsafe and were linked to over 1,000 deaths—many due to Israeli military action. Witkoff aimed to develop a new aid strategy, calling the situation a severe humanitarian crisis.
From Reuters

Hamas Denies Readiness to Disarm Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Date: August 2, 2025
Hamas has rejected U.S. envoy Witkoff’s statements suggesting they were willing to disarm. The group criticized his visit as a “staged show,” aimed at misleading the international community. Since May, over 1,300 Palestinians have died near GHF-run aid sites due to violence, prompting concerns about the organization’s operations. Parallel to these developments, France and the UK have indicated possible recognition of a Palestinian state in September if Israel does not meet conditions including a ceasefire, as supported by EU and Arab League resolutions.
From Al Jazeera

Hostage Footage Sparks Outcry and Urgency for Ceasefire

Date: August 3, 2025
Hamas released new footage showing Israeli hostages in visibly emaciated condition, triggering widespread outrage and renewed calls for urgent action. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff traveled to Tel Aviv and publicly expressed support for hostage families, advocating for a ceasefire.
From Deutsche Welle

Watchdog Alert: What Are The Mormons Up To?

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Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on news and events concerning denominational religion, and brings that content to our readers.

LDS Church suffers major setback in China

Chinese authorities have recently shut down several congregations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—including branches in Beijing and other cities—citing their failure to register with the government. The unexpected closures have left members “heartbroken,” and church leaders are seeking ways to adapt to shifting political environments.
From The Salt Lake City Tribune

Record global growth reported in 2025

The Church announced that between June 1, 2024, and May 31, 2025, convert baptisms during that 12‑month period reached the highest in Church history. Every global region saw at least a 20% increase in baptisms in Q1 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
From newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org

Devotional broadcast from Europe focuses on unity

On July 13, 2025, First Presidency member President Dallin H. Oaks delivered a devotional message from Brussels to Latter-day Saints across Central and Eastern Europe. The broadcast—translated into 23 languages—called members to seek unity in Christ.
From churchofjesuschrist.org

Tabernacle Choir marks 5,000th episode of “Music & the Spoken Word”

On July 13, 2025, the world-famous Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square aired the 5,000th weekly episode of “Music & the Spoken Word,” with audiences tuning in via radio, television, and online across 50 countries. The milestone reflects almost a century of continuous broadcast history, dating back to July 15, 1929.
From Church News

Watchdog Alert: What’s Happening With The Catholics

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Photo via Julius Silvers, pexels.com

Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on news and events from the world of faith and religion and brings that content to our readers.

Vatican green-lights closure of historic Wisconsin parish

The Vatican has authorized the Diocese of Green Bay to close St. Boniface, a parish founded in the 1850s, despite parishioners’ efforts—including raising $2 million and launching a GoFundMe—to save it. The building dates to 1886. From National Catholic Register

First Jubilee for Catholic “influencers” announced

Rome will host a “Jubilee” pilgrimage on July 28–29 specifically for digital missionaries and Catholic influencers, aiming to foster prayer, formation, and community among online faith leaders. From Vatican News

Solidarity visit by Christian patriarchs in the West Bank

On July 14, the Council of Patriarchs and Heads of Churches visited Taybeh, West Bank, to support Christian farmers whose lands and holy sites are being attacked by extremist settlers, urging Israeli authorities to act. From Detroit Catholic

Chicago-area parishes get closure reprieve—murky future

Several Chicago‑area parishes slated for closing or merging on July 1—including Oakbrook Terrace and Wilton Center—have been unexpectedly kept open. Reasons and timelines remain unclear. From Chicago Sun Times

Watchdog Alert: Latest From The Middle East

Rick TryonLeave a comment
Picture via Lara Jameson pexels.com

Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on events from around the world of interest to people of faith and brings that content to our readers.

Houthi rebels attack cargo ship in Red Sea, killing 3 sailors

Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched an assault on the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned cargo ship Eternity C in the Red Sea. Using fast boats and bomb-laden drones, the attack killed three sailors and wounded two. It marks the first maritime strike by the Houthis since late 2024, raising concerns over renewed threats to vital global trade routes. From the AP

Israel bombs hijacked British ship Galaxy Leader and Houthi targets

On July 7, Israel carried out a major airstrike targeting the Galaxy Leader—a vessel hijacked by Houthi rebels since November 2023—as well as several ports in Yemen (Hodeidah, Ras Isa, Salif) and a coastal power plant. The strikes deployed ~50 munitions and were a direct response to sustained ballistic missile attacks from the Houthis. From The Scottish Sun

Iran receives Chinese surface‑to‑air missile batteries post–Israel cease‑fire

Following its recent cease-fire deal with Israel, Iran has reportedly imported Chinese-made surface-to-air missile systems in exchange for oil. This move is part of efforts to rebuild its air-defence capabilities that were compromised during the conflict. From the Middle East Eye

Iran reports ~1,100 killed in 12‑day conflict with Israel

Iran’s official bodies have confirmed approximately 1,100 deaths during the recent 12-day military confrontation with Israel. The toll, shared by the Foundation of Martyrs & Veterans Affairs, reflects the severity of the short yet intense engagement. From Shafaq

Historical Facts And Background Of American Independence Day

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Independence Day in the United States, commonly known as the Fourth of July, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. On that day, the thirteen American colonies formally declared their independence from Great Britain, marking the birth of the United States of America.

Colonial Tensions with Britain

  • In the 1700s, the American colonies were governed by Great Britain, which imposed increasing taxes and trade restrictions.
  • Key grievances included:
    • The Stamp Act (1765) and Townshend Acts (1767) taxing colonists without representation in Parliament.
    • The Boston Massacre (1770) and Boston Tea Party (1773) intensified colonial resistance.
    • Britain’s harsh response to colonial protests further fueled revolutionary sentiment.

Move Toward Independence

  • In 1774, the First Continental Congress met to protest British policies.
  • Fighting began in April 1775 with the Battles of Lexington and Concord—the start of the Revolutionary War.
  • In 1776, momentum grew for a complete break from Britain.

Declaration of Independence

  • Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration was debated and revised by the Continental Congress.
  • It was officially adopted on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
  • The document declared the colonies free and independent states and outlined Enlightenment ideals of liberty, equality, and the right to self-government.

Why July 4th?

  • July 4 is the date the final version of the Declaration was formally approved by Congress.
  • However, the actual signing occurred over the next few weeks and months.
  • John Adams, who advocated for independence, expected July 2 (when Congress voted for independence) to be the celebrated date, but July 4 became the tradition.

Early Celebrations

  • The first Independence Day celebrations included:
    • Public readings of the Declaration.
    • Parades, bonfires, and cannon fire.
    • Celebrations symbolized unity and defiance against tyranny.
  • By the early 1800s, July 4 had become the most important secular holiday in the U.S.

Becoming a National Holiday

  • Independence Day was declared a federal holiday in 1870.
  • It became a paid holiday for federal employees in 1938.

Faith And The Founders

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The overwhelming majority of the signers of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 were Christians. About half (roughly 32 to 34 signers) were affiliated with the Anglican Church, including George Washington.

A few key signers—most notably Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams—are often associated with Deism or Enlightenment rationalism. However, they still operated within a broadly Christian cultural framework. For instance:

  • Jefferson believed in God and moral teachings of Jesus but rejected the Trinity and miracles.
  • Franklin described himself as a Deist but often spoke positively about religion’s role in public virtue.
  • Adams was a devout Christian, though critical of Calvinist doctrines.

Providence in the Revolutionary War

“The hand of Providence has been so conspicuous in all this, that he must be worse than an infidel that lacks faith.”
— George Washington in a letter to Thomas Nelson, August 20, 1778

General Washington frequently spoke of “Providence” in his writings, referring to seemingly miraculous events which benefitted the American cause and led to the extremely improbable result of thirteen little colonies defeating the world’s most powerful empire.

A few examples:

The Fog at Brooklyn Heights (1776)

After the Battle of Long Island, Washington’s army was trapped by British forces. A thick fog descended unexpectedly, allowing his troops to retreat safely across the East River without British interference.

  • Many viewed this fog as a miraculous act of divine intervention.
  • Even British officers later admitted they were baffled by the escape.

The Storm That Saved Washington at Dorchester Heights (1776)

Washington fortified Dorchester Heights to threaten British-held Boston. A storm delayed British attacks long enough for the Americans to finish fortifications.

  • The British decided against assaulting the position.
  • Many patriots saw this as an act of God protecting the Continental Army.

The Victory at Saratoga (1777)

The American victory at Saratoga convinced France to join the war on the American side.

  • Clergy and political leaders interpreted this as a sign that God was guiding the cause of liberty.
  • Congress declared national days of thanksgiving in response.

Happy Independence Day, America!

Watchdog Alert: Latest From The Middle East

Rick TryonLeave a comment

Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on events from around the world of interest to people of faith and brings that content to our readers.

Military briefing: Israel and Iran size up war damage

After 12 days of intense missile and drone exchanges, Israel’s precision airstrikes devastated Iran’s military and nuclear facilities — reportedly destroying over 120 buildings in Tehran, killing 627 Iranians and injuring nearly 4,900. Iran’s missile barrage (550 launches) mostly misfired, striking civilian zones in Israel, resulting in 28 deaths and 1,400 injuries. Analysts say Iran’s nuclear program is set back by months, though Israeli claims suggest delays could span years. From The Financial Times

Ceasefire holds — Khamenei claims “heavy slap” and warns further strikes

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei declared the U.S.–led strikes “achieved nothing” while warning of future U.S. base attacks. He also framed the ceasefire as a regional victory, saying Iran “delivered a heavy slap to America’s face” and hinted at further military action if provoked. From Barron’s

Pope criticizes “diabolical intensity” and humanitarian plight

Pope Leo spoke out on the “diabolical intensity” of the region’s conflict, urging more humanitarian aid for Gaza and a return to international law. His remarks highlight the growing concern over civilian suffering in Gaza amid ongoing hostilities. From reuters.com

Israel halts northern Gaza aid amid theft allegations

Israel has paused humanitarian aid into northern Gaza after video surfaced of masked men on aid trucks. While Israeli officials allege Hamas diversion, clan leaders dispute this, stating they were providing security. From reuters.com

Operation Midnight Hammer And Beyond

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Here is a brief summary of Operation Midnight Hammer carried out by the U.S. over the weekend.

Last night he U.S. executed coordinated precision strikes targeting the Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites in Iran, which President Trump described it as a “spectacular military success”.

The mission involved the first operational use of the 30,000‑lb GBU‑57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bunker‑buster bomb, dropped by seven B‑2 Spirit stealth bombers.

About 125 U.S. aircraft participated—including escort fighters, tankers, support planes—undertaking an 18‑hour mission from Whiteman AFB to Iranian airspace. The mission used a deceptive tactic – some B‑2s flew west toward Guam as decoys while the main strike group flew east.

In addition a U.S. Ohio‑class submarine launched over two dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles at Isfahan’s above‑ground infrastructure.

Last week, before Operation Midnight Hammer, I posted my opinion on what an appropriate level of engagement by the U.S. in the ongoing Israel/Iran conflict should be, and this remains view today:

“Limited U.S. airstrikes with bunker-busters to take out Iran’s Natanz or the Fordow underground nuclear facility? – YES.

Defending American troops overseas and responding with devastating lethal force if even one of our people is attacked or killed over there? – YES! YES! YES!

U.S. boots on the ground in Iran? – NO! NO! NO!

U.S. led push for regime change in Iran? – NO! NO! NO!

Nation building after the war between Israel and Iran? – NO! NO! NO!”

Is Modern Israel The ‘Apple Of God’s Eye”?

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The conflict between Israel and Iran is definitely heating up, and many observers in the faith community believe that the modern Jewish state of Israel is the subject of much Old Testament prophecy. Some even believe that current events in the Middle East are a precursor—perhaps even an immediate precursor—to the biblical Armageddon.

On the other hand, there are many sincere Christians with deep knowledge of the Bible who argue that today’s modern Israel, as constituted since 1948, is not the “apple of God’s eye” as it was in ancient times. They contend that, since the destruction of the Temple and the razing of Jerusalem in 70 AD—and the resulting Jewish diaspora—Jews today are not the same bloodline as the children of God’s covenant with Abraham.

It’s an interesting argument and one worth considering, but here’s where the rubber meets the road: Does America (and the rest of Western Christendom) have an obligation to spend our blood and treasure defending Israel simply because they are considered by some to be “God’s chosen people”?

In my opinion, the answer is no.

But here’s the big “but”: America should be ready to defend and support Israel with weapons and intelligence because she is our greatest friend and ally in the Middle East. Our obligation to Israel stems from modern geopolitical realities, not verses from the Old Testament.

Furthermore, our involvement in the current conflict should be limited to intelligence and material support—not boots on the ground. Israel is fully capable of handling the military personnel side of the equation, and there is no reason for American young people to fight and die in another Middle East killing ground.

Watchdog Alert: Latest From The Middle East

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Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on national and world news and events. Here’s the latest recap from the Middle East.

UN accuses Israel of “extermination” in Gaza schools and religious sites

U.N. experts reported today that Israel has committed the crime against humanity of “extermination” by targeting civilians sheltering in schools and religious venues in Gaza. The latest findings, which will be presented to the U.N. Human Rights Council on June 17, 2025, highlight that over 90% of Gaza’s schools and universities have been destroyed. U.N. Chair Navi Pillay warned this campaign could devastate Palestinians’ cultural and educational future. – From reuters.com

U.S. military weighs options to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran

On June 10, 2025, General Erik Kurilla, leader of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), told Congress the U.S. military is actively reviewing “a range of options” to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He emphasized the readiness to use overwhelming force if necessary. The remarks came amid stalled diplomatic efforts and Iran preparing a counteroffer to a U.S. proposal. – From reuters.com.

Swedish activist Greta Thunberg deported after Gaza-bound aid mission seized

Israel deported climate activist Greta Thunberg after its navy intercepted her charity boat—the “Madleen”—en route to Gaza with humanitarian aid. This occurred following her detention aboard the vessel, as Israeli forces continued detaining other activists on the boat. – From Middle East Eye

Hamas shifts stance amid Qatari pressure on Gaza ceasefire

Under pressure from Qatar, Hamas is reconsidering a response to the current ceasefire proposal, which is reportedly based on U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s framework. The proposed agreement would exchange the release of 10 hostages for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. From The Jerusalem Post